I did a thing .  .  .  a deliciously wonderful ,  terrible (in THE best possible way) thing  . . . {small batch – healthier} Chocolate Hazelnut “Ferrero Rocher” Cookies  . . .

a dark choc fudge brookie ( think–> brownie meets cookie which is possibly one of , if not , THE most delicious fusions to ever exist) soft baked, super fudgy, decadent, rich chocolate cookie that’s chewy on the inside with jussssst the right amount of crispiness on the edges – aka my dream cookie – stuffed with your fave choc hazelnut spread, topped with a layer of espresso infused dark chocolate then finished with a sprinkling of deliciously buttery, roasty, toasty, hazelnuts + a pinch of flakey sea salt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

All the exclamation points are 100% required, plus maybe a few more!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s like an actual Ferrero Rocher but wayyy better imo bc –> delicious chewy choc fudge brookie + espresso infused dark chocolate alwaysssss wins!!!!!

Super simple, I N S A N E L Y delicious, not to mention Gluten Free – Dairy free – Grain free – Refined sugar free –  Low Carb – Paleo –  Keto – Vegan friendly (just use your fave egg replacer + dairy free/ plant based chocolate)!!! But most importantly, they really are edible awesomeness personified and you need them in your life because I said so* jks but not really – they really are an absolute need, yum!!!!!

&&& fancy as they may sound/ look they could not be easier to make. Pinky promise.

The hardest part about making these is waiting for the filling and cookie dough to set before you bake them and then waiting for them to cool so you can eat without burning your face off?! Will waiting be difficult?! If you’re anything like me, unfortunately the answer is yes but, will it be worth it?! absolutrly , 100% , without question, SO worth it!!!

How to make healthier {low carb – gluten free – dairy free – sugar free} chocolate hazelnut notella stuffed “ferrero rocher” cookies:

Prep – before we begin we have to freeze out nutella for the filling!

dollop 1/ish heaping tsp of your fave choc hazelnut spread (homemade or store-bought) on lined plate or baking tray, gently smooth with the back of a spoon or lightly tap tray the treay to spread in to small mounds. freeze for 30 ish mins til firm enough to pick up

Takes 2 mins & guarantees that river of dreams stays contained inside the cookie & doesnt get absorbed into the chocolate abyss or ooze out all over your baking sheet.

How to make healthy {low carb – gluten free – dairy free – sugar free} choc fudge brookie dough, 1 bowl + 1 spoons – quick mix & you’re on your way!

Mix – In a medium size bowl, mix all cookie dough ingredients until smooth and well combined. Easy, peasy!

Chill – Freeze for 15-20 mins – or chill in the for 1-2 hrs or overnight I know , I know its seems annoying but . . . 
*DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP!* sorry for yelling but this is super important! Trusttttttt, I wouldn’t make you do it if it wasn’t absolutely necessary!!!!  Chilling the dough it’s what helps your cookies stay nice and thicc/ maintain their shape.

Will waiting be a little difficult? Possibly for some (some being me) Will it be worth it, 100%!

Scoop – Once chilled, the cookie dough should be firm enough to roll in your hands. Scoop a heappppping tablespoon of dough into your hands and roll in your palms pressing down to flatten it out as you go.

Stuff – Take one of your frozen “nutella” discs and place into the centre of your flat piece of cookie dough , top with another ball of cookie dough. . .

Seal – using your thumb and index or middle finger, whichever feels most comfortable, gently pinch the edges of dough together to sealllll in that frozen disc of choc haZelnut deliciousness . . . place on a lined baking tray. Make sure you leave an inch or 2 between cookies as they will puff up, rise and spread as they bake!

–> repeat with remaining dough and dics of nutella. You should get 6ish thicc cookies.

Bake – @ 175’C/ 350-‘F  for 8-10 minutes until they have risen/ puffed and the edges are just set. They will still feel soft in the middle, relaxxxxxx, they’re perfect! They will firm up/ set as they cool!

Cool – Honestly, this is the hardest part . . . your “active work is done and the scent has surrounded you . . . all you want to do is dive in and eat but you mustnt! I mean it . . . go have a shower, take a walk, read 10 pages of your book . . . you need to allow your cookies to rest, undisturbed on the baking tray for 5-10 minutes as they set/ firm up. If you move them too soon they will collapse on themselves, the tray or all over you and molten hot nutella will run everywhere which sounds like a delicious problem to have but is also very, VERY dangerous. Trust – nutella burns are no joke . . . don’t be like me . . . have patience, save your beautiful face/ hands/ chest(!!!!)/ self!!

Slather with melted chocolate, sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts & a pinch of flakey sea salt (all this is totally optional but really does take the cookies, and your life by extension, to a whollleeeee new level!!), enjoy!!!!!!

I told you it was worth it and I would NEVER, ever lie about such things!!!! I mean can you even with all that melty goodness?!

PS- primarily made with nut butter and a hint of espresso (anand,  if you add the optional collagen you also get a hit of protein) = totally acceptable for breakfast consumption!

Mix em’ up now, bake em’ up first thing, your early morning coffee drinking cookie eating self will thank you.

healthier, homemade chocolate hazelnut “ferrero rocher” cookies  . . .  the sneaky snack you never knew you always needed (lucky you have me to make sure you don’t miss out on such things!!! )

Gluten Free – Dairy free – Grain free – Refined sugar free –  Low Carb – Paleo –  Keto – Vegan friendly but, most importantly, they really are edible awesomeness personified and you need them in your life because, yum!!!!!

from my heart to yours, enjoy xo

ps – if you’re a visual learner, click here for tips, tricks & to cook along with me

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Question of the day –

Do you prefer crispy or soft-baked cookies? Frosted? Filled? Got a fave or recipe req?! lmk . . . 

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your life changing choc hazelnut, healthier, ferrero rocher cookies (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember and nothing makes my hearet happier than seeing you make, share and enjoy my recipes! Truly !!!!

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post {Small Batch} Chocolate Hazelnut “Ferrero Rocher” Cookies first appeared on Better with Cake.

Actually I made you 9!

I’m such a good friend

You see, not only did I make you 9 whole brownies but, I made you 9 of what could possibly be the most decadent, rich, deliciously indulgent, seriously chocolaty, super fudgy brownies you’ve ever tasted!

And, not only are these arguably the most decadent, rich, deliciously indulgent, seriously chocolaty, super fudgy brownies you’ve ever tasted but they also happen to be secretly healthy and oh so easy to make!

Simply throw your ingredients into your trusty ol’ food process or blender, pour, bake, devour!

Although, as delicious as they are fresh from the oven, to fully experience the ultimate fudge factor I strongly suggest you eat them chilled . . .

seriously, life changing!

Made with no refined flours or sugars using just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already and they deliver a sneaky serve of veg which totally makes them acceptable to eat for breakfast (or dinner) , right?! Asking for a friend

I should warn you, these brownies are not for the faint of heart, they truly are a dark chocolate lovers dream!

They are decadent, rich, dark and delicious, subtly sweet, incredibly indulgent, super fudgy and I mean SUPER FUDGY, and seriously, intensely chocolaty – as a good brownie should be!

The natural sweetness of the sweet potato and the hint of subtly sweet, nuttiness from the tahini marries so perfectly with the richness of the cacao – they really do taste all kinds of incredible!

And, somehow, they seem to get better, richer and even more fudgy as the days go on!

They really are magic!

Honestly, I’m having a hard time finding the words to do these brownies the justice they deserve – I just can’t get over how fudgy and rich they are!!! – so I think I’ll stop trying and let them speak for themselves . . .

Plus, the sooner I stop talking (or typing) the sooner we can start eating  . . .

And, I mean really . . . do I need to say anymore?!

Fudge factor on point!

All natural, quick and easy, decadent, rich, deliciously indulgent, subtly sweet, secretly healthy, seriously chocolaty, super fudgy sweet potato brownies . . .

Gluten Free Dairy freeNUT FREE Grain free Refined sugar free Paleo Keto & Vegan friendly

Stop what you’re doing, this needs to happen NOW!!

Sorry for yelling but these BROWNIES!!!!!

Make them. Eat them. Love, love lurrrrrvvvveeeee them!

Super Fudgy, Flourless, Dark Chocolate Sweet Potato Brownies
{Nut Free – Gluten Free – Dairy Free – Refined Sugar Free – Vegan – Keto – Paleo Friendly}

Makes 9 tiny but mighty, decadent, rich, deliciously indulgent, seriously chocolaty, super fudgey, secretly healthy, chocolate brownies.

Ingredients –

1 cup mashed sweet potato – I used 1 medium – keto friends feel free to sub 1/2 sweet potato/1/2  avocado

1/2 cup tahini

1 egg – vegan friends sub a flax/chia egg or your fave egg replacer

1/4 cup cacao*

1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract

3-4 Tablespoons of plant based sweetener of choice –  I use Nuiva – you can sub monk fruit  monk fruit sweetener or 1/4-1/2 cup of coconut sugar

1 teaspoon of instant espresso – optional this really helps enhance the richness of the chocolate

2 Tablespoons of filtered water

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

2-4 Tablespoons of your fave dark chocolate chopped – optional (but not really )

Optional add in’s;
2-4 scoops of  Vital proteins unflavored collagen peptides – Optional for gut healing goodness – vegan friends omit

2 teaspoons of maca – for hormone balance

* I’ve also made these VERY successfully using 1/4 cup of Perfect Keto Choc MCT oil powder in place of the cacao

Method –

1 – Pre-heat oven to 175’C/350’F

2 – Grease a small square baking dish  with coconut oil/ghee or baking/parchment paper and set aside.

3 – Place all ingredients apart from chocolate , if using,  into your food processor or blender and process until smooth, creamy & well combined. If your batter is a little thick, add a splash or two of almond milk (or milk of choice) 1 Tbsp at a time to reach a smoother consistency.

4 – Pour into your prepared baking dish  and bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges are set and a toothpick has just a few moist crumbs attached when inserted into the centre.

DO NOT OVER BAKE!!!

5 –  Cool – slice – devour!

For best results allow to cool completely before serving. I prefer mine chilled.

Enjoy xo

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Question of the day –

What’s your favorite treat?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your brownies (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post Super Fudgy , Flourless Dark Chocolate Sweet Potato Brownies {Nut Free – Gluten Free – Dairy Free – Refined Sugar Free – Vegan – Keto – Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

At last, at last it’s here at last!

I could not be more excited to share this recipe with you today.

It’s one that I’ve been working on for weeks I tell you, WEEKS!

I’m not exactly sure who/what/where or how I got the idea to make a date free salted caramel slice but, I somehow I got it and couldn’t for the life of me seem to shake it so, date free salted caramel slice had to be made.

It took a few attempts to get it just how I wanted I’m happy to say that I got there in the end!

Subtly sweet, silky smooth, lightly salted caramel sits on a deliciously nutty, cinnamon spiked base and finished with a decadent and rich, cool, crisp, dark chocolate coating . . .

You guys, this slice . . . so insanely delicious that simply saying it’s delicious doesn’t even come close to doing it the justice it deserves.

And oh my word, talk about quick and easy to make!

Toast Blend Press Blend Pour Melt Chill Devour!

Honestly, the hardest part about making this slice is waiting for it to chill/set – believe me when I say the struggle is real but also, 100% worth it!

Now, I know, I know I’ve said this is a raw caramel slice and then I’m going to go ahead and tell you to roast/toast your cashews and almonds before making your base but, that step is totally optional although I do highly recommend it. Toasting your nuts before making the base makes it next level delicious.  Yes, it will take an extra 5-10 mins but, if you ask me, it’s 100% worth it!

Honestly you guys, I’m not sure what more there is to tell you . . .

Quick and easy, secretly healthy, salted caramel slice that comes together in a matter minutes, is made with no refined flours or sugars, using just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already, is gluten free,  dairy free, refined sugar free, vegan, low carb, keto & paleo friendly and tastes like an absolute dream . . .

And just look at it!

Those layers . . .

That filling . . .

That chocolate topping . . . Those flakes of sea salt . . .

Subtly sweet, silky smooth, lightly salted caramel sits on a deliciously nutty, cinnamon spiked base, finished with a deliciously indulgent, decadent, rich, cool, crisp, dark chocolate coating . . .

So. Much, YESSSSSS.

Make it. Eat it. Love, love, love it.

Note – this slice definitely needs to be kept refrigerated (I like to keep and eat mine straight from the freezer)  but it will keep well refrigerated for 7-10 days , although I highly doubt it will last that long. It can be frozen for a good 3-6 months.

The post Raw {Date Free} Salted Caramel Slice – Gluten Free – Dairy Free – Refined Sugar Free – Low Carb – Vegan – Keto – Paleo first appeared on Better with Cake.

Well that’s not true, I actually have a lot I could tell you.

Like, the fact that we are heading off on a very last minute, extremely unexpected, but very much needed, family vacation to our beloved Denver, Colorado.

We leave in just 8 days and I have sooooo much to do. Seriously SO MUCH!! My head . . . is  spinning!

For one thing, I still can’t believe it’s actually happening (somebody pinch me, gently) add to that all the stuff I need to do and organize between now and then. You know, little things like digging out and washing our winter clothes. Dusting off suitcases. Cleaning out the fridge and pantry. Making sure we have all our toiletries in order, and plenty of snacks to eat on the way (20+ hours of travel all up, we gonna need some serious snackage), all that good stuff.

But, we also just discovered that my passport expired last month so, there’s that.

And then my iPhone died!

Well not completely but, close enough so yesterday was spent getting that updated and taken care of. Ugh, nerve wracking much?! Please tell me I’m not the only one who turns into an antsy, anxious, nervous wreck when it comes to updating/syncing/backing up these super smart electronic devices we’ve become so attached?! Stressed much!? I think YES!

See, so many things!!!!!!!

But, all kind of pales in comparison to this next thing I’m about share with you . . .

Are you ready . . .

Wait.

You might want to sit down for this.

Or at least hold onto your hat here friend because there’s a good chance that this thing I’m about to share with you, may just blow your pretty little mind . . .

You see, I made you a little something . . .

A little something extra special because, well, you’re a little something extra special and I think you deserve a treat.

But not just any ol’ treat, only the best of the best for my sweet invisible internet BFF (psst, that’s you)

And this thing I’m about to share with you.

Really is the best of the best.

I’m talking no holds barred baby.

Are you ready?!

Ok, here we go . . .

Say hello to my deliciously simple, secretly healthy, salted dark chocolate peanut butter caramels.

I told you, you deserved the best didn’t I?!

And um, you guys . . . these deliciously simple, secretly healthy, salted dark chocolate peanut butter caramels, like you, really are THE BEST!

I’m sorry, I don’t mean to yell but . . . they really are that incredible!

I mean, did you hear me?!

Deliciously simple, secretly healthy, 4 ingredient, salted dark chocolate peanut butter caramels!

Glorious, golden, peanut butter infused, lightly salted caramel, encased in a cool, crisp, decadent and rich, deliciously indulgent dark chocolate coating.

They are pretty much edible awesomeness, personified.

I mean, chocolate, caramel, peanut butter . . .

Does it get any better?! (just add coffee obvs)

But, obvious coffee additions aside, “Surely it can’t possibly get any better, Em?! “ I hear you say, but I assure you, it does!

You see, when I say these salted dark chocolate peanut butter caramels are deliciously simple and secretly healthy I really, truly mean it!

These beauties are made with just 4 simple ingredients that I bet you have on hand already (dates – vanilla – nut butter – chocolate and a cheeky pinch of salt)

They come together in a matter of minutes!

And, they also happen to be naturally vegan – gluten free – dairy free – refined sugar free and paleo friendly 

But most importantly they are simply divine, a little bite of heaven right here on earth, and you need them in your life like, yesterday

Honestly, I’m not sure what else there is to say?!

I mean would you just look at them?!

All natural, quick and easy, deliciously simple, secretly healthy, peanut butter infused, salted dark chocolate covered caramels . . .

Seriously, go make them already!

Salted Dark Chocolate Peanut butter Caramels
{Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly}

Makes approx 16 deliciously simple, secretly healthy, dark and delicious, chocolate coated, peanut butter infused salted caramels

Ingredients –

For the Peanut Butter Caramel –

1 cup (firmly packed) Medjool dates,pits removed – I used about 14 large dates*

1 teaspoon of vanilla (or 4-6 drops of vanilla cream stevia – I like to use Sweet Leaf Stevia )

3 Tablespoons of Peanut Butter (Paleo friends or those of you with peanut allergies feel free to sub nut/seed butter of choice)

A pinch of salt flakes + extra for serving (if using un-salted peanut butter you may want to add up to 1/2 a teaspoon but start with a pinch, taste and adjust once you’ve made your caramel)

Optional add-ins;

1-2 scoops of collagen peptides – for gut health

1 tsp maca – for hormone balance

For the chocolate coating –

1/2 cup dark chocolate

Method –

To make the peanut butter caramel –

1 – Place dates, vanilla, peanut butter and salt into your food processor or blender and process until it comes together to form a thick, sticky “dough”

2 – Add a splash of water (do this while your blender or food processor is running), 1 teaspoon at a time until the caramel loosens just slightly to form a deliciously smooth, gloriously golden, naturally sweet, peanut butter infused caramel. Set aside while you melt your chocolate.

3 – Melt your chocolate by your preferred method. I like to place my chocolate onto a small plate or bowl and sit it over a pot of gently simmering water, stirring occasionally until nice and melted.

4 – Use a teaspoon to drizzle some melted chocolate into a chocolate mold (or can use mini paper or silicone cupcake/muffin cases if you prefer) and spread to coat evenly. Don’t use all your chocolate, remember you want to save about 1/4 of it to spread on top once our chocolate cups are filled.

5 – Place your chocolate cups in the fridge or freezer to set.

6 – Once set – fill each chocolate cup with a heaping spoonful of your healthy, homemade peanut butter caramel, use the back of your spoon carefully smooth out the top and firmly but gently press the filling down into the chocolate cups as you go.

7 – Once all your cups are filled with our dreamy peanut butter caramel, top with a little extra chocolate then place them back into the fridge (or freezer) to set.

8 – To serve, sprinkle with a touch of flakey sea salt and enjoy.

FYI – These delicious little cups will keep well in the fridge for several weeks but can also be stored in the freezer for 3-6 months!

Enjoy xo

* If you find your dates are a little dry you could try soaking them in some warm water for 10 minutes before you begin, then drain and rinse and proceed with the recipe as normal.
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Question of the day –

Are you a fellow date caramel lover? What’s your fave way to to eat it?! Straight up by the spoonful, with fruit, in smoothies, on chocolate?! Tell me . . . details please

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your chocolate coated caramel bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post Healthy, Salted Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Caramels {Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

Pumpkin Spiced, Salted Caramel Bliss Bites!

I know, I know there are a million and one different recipes out there for our beloved bliss bites but, you guys did you hear me . . .

PUMPKIN SPICED, SALTED CARAMEL BLISS BITES!!!!!!

I don’t mean to yell but you guys . . . yes, these pumpkin spiced salted caramel bliss bites  really are THAT good!

Plump and juicy, deliciously chewy caramel infused medjool dates are combined with buttery cashews, crisp, crunchy almonds, a splash of vanilla and a cheeky pinch of salt to make our insanely delicious, salted caramel, bliss bite base.

Next, we infuse our blissfully delicious, sweet, chewy, lightly salted, caramel base with a gentle hum of our healthy, homemade, heart and belly warming pumpkin spice mix.

The combination of our pumpkin spice mix with that deliciously buttery soft, chewy, salted caramel base is truly incredible!

One bite and you will think Christmas has come early and if you ask me, it kind of has because that’s exactly what these bliss bites taste like to me.

Blissfully soft, deliciously chewy, perfectly spiced, lightly salted, caramel infused bites of happiness.

So much deliciousness I can hardly stand it but . . .

Because I can’t seem to leave well enough alone, I thought it might be a good idea if we gave our deliciously simple, secretly healthy,  pumpkin spiced, salted caramel bliss bites a subtly sweet, deliciously nutty, crisp and crunchy coconut coating . . .

Spoiler alert . . .

Best idea, EVER!

Well, that was until I decided to try tossing them in a touch of cacao . . .

Ummmmm yep, also a very wise move on my part.

I mean, I think we can all agree that the addition of chocolate, in any way shape of form, really does make just about anything better, am I right?!

Oh you know I am. You’re so smart!

Not only does it add an incredible contrast in texture, with the coconut flakes adding a nice little crunch to the outside of our soft and chewy bliss bites where the cacao adds a touch of deliciously indulgent, decadent richness that marries so perfectly with the sweetness of our salted spiced caramel when you bite on in – it really is mind-blowingly delicious!

Which would you try first?!

Ah I seriously can not wait for you to try these bliss bites, I know you are going to love them!

And FYI – they also happen to be 100% gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free, vegan and paleo friendly.

5 ingredients, 10 minutes in the making

Stop what you’re doing, this needs to happen, NOW!

All natural, quick and easy, soft and chew, deliciously buttery, perfectly spiced, lightly salted caramel infused bliss bites;

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

Pumpkin Spiced Salted Caramel
Bliss Bites

{Vegan, Gluten Free & Paleo Friendly}
Makes approx 20 – all natural, quick and easy, crisp, crunchy, deliciously nutty, subtly sweet, blissfully soft, deliciously chewy, perfectly spiced, salted caramel bliss bites.

Ingredients –

1/2 cup cashews (I used raw, unsalted)

1/2 cup almonds (I used raw, unsalted)

3/4 cup medjool dates, pits removed – approx 7 large

1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract (or 8-12 drops of vanilla cream stevia – I like to use Sweet Leaf Stevia )

1/2 of salt flakes

1 teaspoon of our healthy, homemade pumpkin spice mix

1 scoop of Vital proteins unflavored collagen peptides optional

Optional for serving –

2-4 Tablespoons  of finely shredded coconut for coating.

2-4 Tablespoons of cacao

Method –

1 – Place almonds and cashews in your food processor/blender and pulse until crumbly, you want there to still be a few bigger chunks to give the bites some nice texture.

2 – Add dates and process until the mixture comes together to form a sticky “dough”.

3 – Add vanilla, salt flakes and spices and process again until combined.

4 – Using your hands, roll approx 1 Tablespoon of dough into little bite size balls then set aside.

I feel like I should mention that when I make my bliss bites I tend to make them way smaller than the ones you see in stores or cafes. I prefer to make them on the smaller side because I like being able to just pop one in my mouth on the down low so I don’t have to share I can go about my business. I would say you would probably need 3 of my bliss bites to make up the size of one of those store bought/cafe size bites. Feel free make them whatever size that tickles your fancy, just wanted to put that out there

5 – Place your coconut and cacao each into a small bowl (or even just a zip lock bag) then gently roll your bliss bites in the coconut or cacao for coating, gently but firmly pressing as you go.

6 – Once your bites have their delicious little coating, transfer directly to your mouth an airtight container (or even just a ziplock bag) and store in the fridge

Enjoy xo

• If you find your dates are a little dry you could try soaking them in some warm water for 10 mins before you begin, then drain and rinse and make as normal.

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Question of the day –

Are you a fellow bliss bite lover? What’s your favorite flavor combination?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make these bliss bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post Pumpkin Spiced Salted Caramel Bliss Bites {Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

If you’re looking for some deliciously simple, secretly healthy, homemade treats to make for your dear ol’ Dad this Father’s day weekend (or even just for your fine self because, yum! #treatyoself )  then look no further my friend.

I’ve put together a list of 20 of my most popular, healthy, homemade treats, an array of goodies to cater for all tastes, that are super simple to put together (so little hands can get involved) and would make a wonderful gift that I’m sure the special men in your life would thoroughly enjoy, I know mine do

1 – Salted Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Bites

2 – Lemon Berry Bliss Bites

3 – Salted Maple Pecan Almond Butter

4 – Apple and Cranberry {Grain Free} Granola

5 – Sweet and Spicy Savory Snack Mix

6 – Chocolate Orange Bliss Bites

7 – Chocolate Tahini Fudge Bites

8 – Chocolate Coated Roasted Almonds

9 – Healthy, No-Bake Lamington {Chocolate & Coconut} Bliss Bites

10 – Black Forest Granola

11 – Dark Chocolate Strawberry Coconut Butter Cups

12 – Quick and Easy Candied Walnuts

13 – 3 Ingredients Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Almond Butter Cups

14 – Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge Power Bites

15 – Summer Berry Snack Mix

16 – Caramel Chai Spiced Bliss Bites

17 – Deliciously Simple, Healthy, Homemade Chocolate Coated, Salted Caramels

18 – DIY – Dark Chocolate Roasted Almond Bark

19 – Dark Chocolate Cranberry Fruit and Nut Clusters

20 – Dark Chocolate Double Stuffed Dates

So much deliciousness where to begin?

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Please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your deliciously simple, secretly healthy, homemade treats (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post 20 Deliciously Simple, Secretly Healthy Homemade Treats for Father’s Day first appeared on Better with Cake.

Can you even believe it?!

August . . .

Already?!

Um, how?!

I feel like this year is just flying by in record time!

Seriously, August . . . already?!

I really can’t believe it.

But, as shocked as I am that it’s August already I’m also super excited about it because August = birthday month baby!!!!

I’m thinking there is no better way to kick off birthday month (Oh, yes – I really do like the sound of that) than by sharing with my new fave treat with my fave peeps (FYI – that’s you)

Healthy, homemade, salted dark chocolate peanut butter tahini fudge bites for everyone!!!

Try saying that 10 times fast?!

Actually, let’s not worry about saying, let’s just make and eat it shall we?!

So about this whole quick and easy, DIY – healthy homemade chocolate thing . . . I can’t stop . . .

Well that’s not entirely true, I probably could if I wanted but, ummmmmm  . . . just between you and me, I really don’t.

Not even a little bit.

And, when it’s so easy to make with just 6 ingredients and 5 minutes to stir it all together (Yes, it really is that easy!) . . . why would I want to?!

Yep . . . cant stop, not sorry

And, this latest creation has taken my chocolate + nut butter loving obsession to a whole new level . . .

It’s 2 of my greatest loves combined into one decadent, rich, deliciously indulgent (yet secretly healthy) divine little mouthful! #worthit

Please don’t let the fact that I’m asking you to make your own chocolate intimidate or put you off making this recipe . . . I promise you there is reason to be scared or intimidated in the slightest – it really is as simple as – melt, stir, set, eat – you can (and should!!) do this! 

Like now!

Healthy, homemade chocolate peanut butter fudge . . .

What more do I need to tell you?!

I mean, would you just look at them?!

Just sitting there in all their lightly salted, dark, delicious, seriously fudge-y, peanut butter stuffed glory

Get. In. My. Belly

Just in case you need a leetle more convincing . . . not only are these insanely delicious,  secretly healthy, decadent and rich, peanut butter stuffed fudge bites super quick and easy to prepare, made with no refined flours or sugars, using just 6 real food ingredients, that I bet you have on hand already and come together in well under 10 minutes but, they also happen to be dairy free, sugar free, gluten free, vegan, keto and paleo friendly.

Paleo friends simply use in your fave almond (or nut butter of choice) in place of the PB and any of you folks with nut allergies you can easily make them nut free – sunbutter (or your fave nut free spread) would work perfectly here too! Don’t you worry your pretty little head, I got you covered

Now, one more thing before I go and let you get your chocolate making on,these deliciously simple, secretly healthy dark chocolate peanut butter fudge bites we’re making . . . they aren’t for the faint of heart.

They are decadent and rich, deliciously indulgent and seriously, and I mean
S E R I O U S L Y chocolaty.

For those of you who prefer your chocolate on the sweeter side feel free to bump up the amount of vanilla you use, or you could go ahead and add in a drizzle of maple syrup or honey if you prefer – the trick is to taste as you go and customize as needed.

That’s another thing I love about making your own homemade treats – not only is it a lot better for you ( our fudge is made with no refined flours, sugars, weird fillers or unpronounceable ingredients)  and it’s 100% customizable.

Play around, have some fun and make it just the way you like it just do me a favor and promise me that you will make this, asap!

I’m talking like, today!

Seriously, stop what you’re doing . . .this needs to happen, now!

Ok, I’ll stop now because honestly, I could talk about these beauties all. day. long.

And, you don’t need to listen to me go on and on (and on and on and on and on) about how insanely delicious and in love with them I am, you need to go make and taste them for yourself . . .  one taste and I know you’ll agree . . .

All natural, quick and easy, deliciously simple, secretly healthy, decadent, rich, lightly salted, peanut butter stuffed dark chocolate tahini fudge bites . . .

A little piece of heaven in your hot little hand.

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them!

Salted Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Tahini Fudge Bites
{Dairy Free – Sugar Free – Gluten Free –
Vegan – Keto & Paleo Friendly}

Makes approx 16 deliciously indulgent, decadent and rich, seriously chocolaty, tiny but mighty, peanut butter stuffed dark chocolate tahini fudge bites.

Ingredients –

1/4 cup cacao butter

1/4 cup cacao

1/4 cup tahini

2 teaspoons of vanilla extract (or 10-12 drops of vanilla cream stevia – I like to use Sweet Leaf Stevia )

1/4 teaspoon instant espresso – optional but recommended

1 pinch of salt + extra for serving

4 Tablespoons of peanut butter – I use Byron Bay Peanut butter – It’s made with just peanuts and mineral salt and is so, SO good! Highly, HIGHLY recommend! Get yours here  (Paleo friends just sub almond butter or nut butter of choice or to make them nut free use your fave sunbutter)

 

1 teaspoons maca – optional for hormone balance

1-2 scoops of  Vital proteins unflavored collagen peptides – optional for an extra dose of protein and gut healing goodness

Method –

1 – Place cacao butter into a medium size bowl and melt by your preferred method. I like to do mine on the stove top, double boiler style, by placing the bowl on top of saucepan filled with just a few inches of water.

2 – Once your cacao butter has melted, add remaining ingredients and stir until smooth and well combined.

3 – Pour (or spoon) 3/4 of your melted fudge mixture into a chocolate mould tray (or you could just place some paper cupcake cases on to a baking sheet, or use a mini muffin tray instead)

4 – Place into the fridge or freezer to set.

5 – Once set, top each fudge bite with a teaspoon of nut butter (use the back of the spoon to flatten and smooth it out to the edges, then cover your nut butter with a drizzle of the left over chocolate fudge (again use your spoon to cover your nut butter and spread it to out to the edges).

6 – Sprinkle with a little sea salt then place them back into the fridge or freezer for 5 minutes to set and voila’

Enjoy xo

Note – These beauties are best stored in the fridge (or freezer) as they tend to soften in warmer temperatures

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Question of the day –

Are you a fellow fudge lover? What’s your favorite flava flave?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your decadent and rich, salted, dark chocolate peanut butter tahini fudge bites (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

__________________________________________

The post Salted Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Tahini Fudge Bites {Dairy Free – Sugar Free – Gluten Free – Vegan – Keto – Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

Chocolate chai spiced chia pudding!!!!!

Try saying that 10 times fast?!

I don’t know if it’s because the weather is getting cooler as we head into winter here in Sydney but, for some reason I find myself seriously craving all things chai!

I just can’t seem to get enough.

So in an attempt to satisfy my never ending craving for chai (and chocolate) I thought I would make myself a delicious little pudding cup.

Because who doesn’t love a good pudding cup (and chocolate) am I right?!

And, ummmm, you guys . . .

Best idea, ever!

This chocolate chai spiced chia pudding is seriously, incredible!

It’s decadent, rich, subtly sweet, deliciously indulgent and seriously chocolatey with the perfect hum of chai inspired spices.

So, SO good!

And, you know what makes it even better?!

The fact that it also happens to be seriously (and I mean S E R I O U S L Y ) good for you!

It’s made with no refined flours or sugars, sweetened naturally with just a splash of vanilla and those chai inspired spices.

Also, because I’ve used coconut yogurt and vanilla almond milk in our base it also happens to be 100% dairy free, vegan, gluten free and paleo friendly!

And then there’s all those incredible health benefits that those cheeky little chia seeds bring to the party – It’s rich in antioxidants, packed with protein, high in calcium, fiber, magnesium and those all important omega 3’s!

Super-food say whaaaaatttt?!

So much to love I tell you and love it you will!

This pudding would make the perfect little, deliciously indulgent, late night dessert but, it’s also light enough to enjoy for breakfast especially if you serve it with some coconut yogurt, a sprinkling of this cranberry and coconut {grain free} granola and a giant vat cup of coffee, of course.

Chocolate pudding for breakfast = winning!!!

It also makes a killer post workout (or anytime) snack.

I mean would you just look at it?!

Swoon!!

Those of you who have been following along for a while now may recall that I have some weird, texture issues with straight up chia pudding. Same goes for porridge/oatmeal.  As much as I want to, I just can’t do it which is why I always end up blending it. That way it gets thick, creamy, velvety smooth and all kinds of delicious! Texture issues be gone baby!

So, if you don’t have the same texture issues that I do you can go ahead and skip the blending stage. It’s totally up to you, 100% your call. Blending it doesn’t change the flavor of our pudding so go ahead and do what you feel, just promise me you’ll make it, and soon, OK?!

All natural, quick and easy, creamy, dreamy, velvety smooth, decadent and rich, seriously chocolaty, perfectly spiced, secretly healthy chocolate chai spiced chia pudding . . .

Make it. Eat it. Love, love, love it.

Chocolate Chai Spiced Chia Pudding
{Vegan, Dairy Free & Paleo Friendly
Makes approx 2 serves of all natural, thick and creamy, decadent, rich, velvety smooth,  seriously chocolatey, secretly healthy, perfectly spiced chia pudding

Ingredients –

1/4 cup of coconut yogurt (or Greek style yogurt)

1/3 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of choice)

3 Tablespoons of  chia seeds

1 Tablespoon of cacao

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or 4-6 drops of Vanilla Cream Stevia – I use Sweet Leaf Stevia

1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

1 pinch of nutmeg –  I used 1/2 of my 1/8th teaspoon

1 pinch of cardamom –  I used 1/2 of my 1/8th teaspoon

1 pinch of cloves –  I used 1/2 of my 1/8th teaspoon

1/4 teaspoon of espresso – optional

A pinch of salt

Optional but recommended for serving;

1 teaspoon of shredded dark chocolate  (or cacao nibs)

Coconut yogurt (or yogurt of choice)

Chia seeds

Method –

1 – Place all pudding ingredients into a small bowl or jug and stir to combine.

2 – Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, (or overnight). Make sure you go and give it a little stir every now and again to remove any lumps and just to make sure those cheeky little chia seeds haven’t settled at the bottom of the bowl.

3 – Once your pudding is nice and thick, place the mixture into your food processor or blender and process until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have texture issues like me you can skip this step and simply stir and serve as is.

Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary, you could add a little maple syrup, honey or some extra stevia/vanilla if you like your pudding on the sweeter side.

4 – Pour your pudding mixture into cute little cups or bowls and place it back in the fridge for at least 30 minutes chill and re-set before serving (it gets a little warm and the consistency thins out with the friction created while blending).

6 – To serve, top with coconut yogurt (or yogurt of choice),if using, sprinkle with chocolate (or cacao nibs) and some extra cheeky chia seeds if desired.

Enjoy xoxo

__________________________________________

Question of the day –

Are you a fellow chia pudding lover? What’s your favorite flavor combination?

Feel free to share recipes, or links to your fave recipes in the comments below or on the Facebook page and please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your creamy, dreamy, chocolate chai spiced chia pudding (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post Chocolate Chai Spiced Chia Pudding {Gluten Free – Dairy Free – Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

All natural, quick and easy, soft, chewy, crisp, crunchy, subtly sweet, seriously addicting lemon berry bliss bites

Are bliss bites still a thing?

Please tell me they’re still a thing?

Or are they so not cool anymore and, once again, I missed the memo?!

I missed it didn’t I?!

I’m so not cool.

But, if that’s the case and my beloved bliss/energy bites are no longer considered “cool” I have a feeling they are about to make an epic come back because, you guys . . . these lemon berry bliss bites are insanely good.

Buttery cashews are combined with deliciously chewy, magical medjool dates then infused with sweet strawberries and a hint of light, fresh, zesty lemon.

The slight tartness of those freeze dried strawberries and the freshness of our lemon zest cuts through the natural sweetness of those magical medjool dates making these beautiful little bliss bites light, fresh, subtly sweet and simply divine!!

Seriously so good!

I don’t know what it is but, this time of year I always find myself craving citrus-y things.

Last year it was lemon and coconut bliss bites, the year before that it was lemon and chia muffins and this year it’s lemon berry bliss bites?!

Maybe it has something to do with the change of season or, maybe it’s my body craving some light, fresh, cleansing flavors after the deliciously indulgent, chocolate/treat filled festivities aka Easter?! #iregretnothing

Whatever the reason I’m just going to go with it because you guys, these lemon berry bliss bites are a light, fresh, edible bite of heaven and you need them in your life, asap!

As always our beloved bliss bites are all natural made with just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already.

They are naturally vegan, gluten free and paleo friendly and come together in a matter of minutes!

Simply throw your ingredients into your food processor or blender and you’re pretty much done!

Once your light, fresh, buttery, sweet, pretty pink, lemon infused bliss bite “dough” is ready, all that’s left to do is roll them into deliciously, pop-able bite size pieces and voila’, done!

Now, although they are all kinds of delicious enjoyed simply as they are in all their freshly rolled glory, if you have can spare a few extra minutes and you feel like getting a little fancy then you might want to go ahead and crumble up a handful of freeze dried strawberries into a fine looking powder, and while you’re at it, pop some finely shredded coconut into a bowl then . . .

roll some of those blissfully delicious, pretty hued, lemon scented beauties in a little of each.

It’s totally not necessary but I think it’s worth the extra time and effort because the contrast in both flavor and texture kind of takes these lemon berry bliss bites to the next level.

Crisp and crunchy, subtly sweet, freeze dried strawberries or coconut flakes on the outside, blissfully soft, deliciously chewy, light, fresh, zesty lemon scented deliciousness on the inside;

The perfect anytime treat!

All natural, quick and easy, soft, chewy, crisp, crunchy, subtly sweet, vibrant, delicious, seriously addicting lemon berry bliss bites

Make them. Eat them. Love, love, love them.

Lemon Berry Bliss Bites
{Vegan, Gluten Free & Paleo Friendly}

Makes approx 24* all natural, quick and easy, subtly sweet, soft and chewy, zesty, lemony blissful bites of berry infused deliciousness.

Ingredients –

1 cup cashews (I used raw, unsalted)

6 large medjool dates, pits removed

1/2 cup of freeze dried strawberries

1 teaspoon of vanilla (or 4-6 drops of vanilla cream stevia – I like to use Sweet Leaf Stevia )

1 Tablespoon of lemon juice (or 1 teaspoon of lemon extract or a few drops of lemon oil)

1 teaspoon of freshly grated 1 lemon zest

a generous pinch of salt flakes

1-2 scoops of Vital proteins unflavored collagen peptides – optional for an extra dose of protein and gut healing goodness

Optional for serving –

1/4 cup of finely shredded coconut for coating.

1/4 cup of freeze dried strawberries crumbled into a fine powder

Method –

Before you get started – If your dates are a little dry, I suggest you pop them into a small bowl or jug and pour over enough boiling water so they are completely submerged. Set aside for 5 minutes while you get your food processor out and gather up the rest of your ingredients and then when your ready simply pour out the water and proceed with the recipe as normal.

1 – Place cashews in your food processor/blender and pulse until it resembles a fine crumb, you want there to still be a few bigger chunks to give the bites some nice texture.

2 – Add dates, vanilla, lemon juice, zest and salt then process until the mixture starts to come together into a sticky “dough”.

3 – Add your freeze dried strawberries and process until combined.

4 – Using your hands, roll approx 1 Tablespoon of dough into little bite size balls then set aside.

I feel like I should mention that when I make my bliss bites I tend to make them way smaller than the ones you see in stores or cafes. I prefer to make them on the smaller side because I like being able to just pop one in my mouth on the down low so I don’t have to share I can go about my business. I would say you would probably need 3 of my bliss bites to make up the size of one of those store bought/cafe/golf ball size bites. Feel free make them whatever size that tickles your fancy, just wanted to put that out there

For the optional coating;

5 – Place your coconut and strawberry powder each into a separate plate or bowl (or even just a zip lock bag) then roll/toss your bliss bites through the either the coconut or strawberry powder until they have a nice light, even coating and set aside. Repeat until all bites are coated.

5 – Once your bites have their delicious little coconut or pretty pink strawberry powder  coats on, transfer to your mouth an airtight container (or even just a ziplock bag) and store in the fridge

Enjoy xo

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Question of the day –

What snacks are you loving lately?

Feel free to share recipes or leave links to recipes in the comments below and please, for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your brownies (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

__________________________________________

The post Lemon Berry Bliss Bites {Vegan, Gluten Free & Paleo Friendly} first appeared on Better with Cake.

With Mother’s day just a few days away I thought I would put together a short list of a few of my favorite deliciously simple, secretly healthy recipes that would be perfect to serve for Mother’s Day brunch, or lunch or anytime because well, brunch!!!!

All of the recipes you see below are super simple to put together, made with just a handful of ingredients that I bet you have on hand already and come together in less than 30 minutes!

I made sure to include a little of everything, some savory, some sweet, some hot, some cold – an array of goodies to cater for all tastes.

They are all simple, all delicious and all guaranteed to be very much enjoyed and greatly appreciated no matter which one you choose.

1 – Quick and Easy Carrot and Zucchini Fritters  – GF – Paleo

2 – Whipped Espresso Choc Chip Chia Pudding – V – GF – DF – Paleo – Whole30

3 – Hummingbird Muffins with Coconut Yogurt Frosting – GF – Paleo

4 – Avocado and Black Bean Quesadillas – GF

5 – Gingerbread Protein Pancakes  – GF

6 – Jamie’s Spring Fritatta – GF  – Easily adapted to Paleo – Vegan & Whole30

7 – Vanilla Spiked Protein Waffles – GF

8 – Deliciously Ugly Lemon Berry Muffins – GF – Paleo

9 – Sun-dried Tomato, Spinach and Feta Quesadillas – GF

10 – Banana Fig and Walnut Muffins – GF – Paleo

11 – Strawberry Choc Chip Chia Pudding – V – GF – Paleo

12 – Vanilla Spiked Protein Pancakes – GF

13 – Sweet Potato Egg Boats – GF – Paleo – Whole30

14 – Banana Ricotta and Dark Chocolate Quesadillas –
GF – Eaily adapted to be Vegan – Dairy Free – Paleo

15 – Apple and Cinnamon Muffins with Maple-Vanilla Almond Butter Frosting
GF – Paleo

16 – Healthy, Wholewheat Peanut Butter Pancakes

17 – Epic Avocado Egg Salad Lettuce Cups – GF – Dairy Free – Paleo

So many delicious options, which would you choose?

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Please for the love of all that is good in this world when you do make your deliciously simple, secretly healthy, Mother’s day brunch recipe (or any of the recipes you find on this blog of mine) go ahead and snap a pic and share it either on the Facebook page, or tag me on twitter or Instagram. Sharing is caring remember.

Do it, do it You know you want to

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The post 17 Healthy Recipes for Mother’s Day Brunch first appeared on Better with Cake.